Lazarus Saturday: what you can eat and what not to do on this day

Lazarus Saturday 2023 is celebrated by Orthodox Christians on the eve of Palm Sunday, namely April 8. On this day the Orthodox Church remembers the resurrection by Christ of the righteous Lazarus.

The editors of FoodOboz will tell you about the history and traditions of Lazarus Saturday, as well as the main food prohibitions on this day.

History of Lazarus Saturday.

As noted in the Gospel, before visiting Jerusalem, the Savior decided to visit his friends Martha, Mary, and their brother Lazarus, who lived in the suburbs, Bethany. They repeatedly received the Savior as their dearest guest.

When Jesus visited them, he learned that Lazarus was sick and soon died. It was four days before he came. When Jesus heard about the death of his good friend, he wept. Together with his disciples he went to the cave where Lazarus was buried and ordered the removal of the stone blocking the entrance. There Christ said a prayer, after which Lazarus, who had been healed, came out of the cave.

Lazarus Saturday Traditions

Traditionally on this holiday believers should attend church services and pray for the cure of diseases. Also on this day people prepare sprigs of willow to consecrate them on Palm Sunday.

Prohibitions in eating on the Sabbath of Lazarus

On this day Lent is still going on, so the holiday table should be Lenten. However, there are some indulgences, because you can eat fish roe, but not fish and fish dishes. It is also allowed to drink some dry wine. Hard alcohol is strictly forbidden.

Of the food you can cook and eat bean porridge, vegetable salads, buckwheat flour pancakes and baked potatoes.

previously, OBOZREVATEL told about the history and main symbols of Palm Sunday.